PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — A long closed station along the PATCO high speed line in Center City could come alive again. But the idea of reopening the Franklin Square stop has been considered, and rejected before. This time could be different.

Low rider usage led to the station’s closing in 1979. A couple recent studies have suggested the Delaware River Port Authority might be better off leaving the padlocks on. But Commissioner John Dougherty believes development in the area changes everything, as 900 thousand visitors are expected in the park this year.

“It might just be miniature golf or it might just be stopping by here in Center City for a convention or visit one of the beautiful neighborhoods we have.”

Reopening the station would cost millions, but Dougherty hints that might address what he’s always viewed as a disparity of Authority funding that favors New Jersey.

The board has agreed to look into the idea. No promises though.You may also be interested in these stories: